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Scene 3: The Bad Deal

Stage is set with Ecos silk A, only now the raised head of tobacco (see set diagram) towers over it from the previous scene.

Doyhen voice over: In many developing countries tobacco companies give farmers loans, and charge them for equipment, and technical assistance to grow tobacco. Many of these farmers find themselves heavily in debt to the companies.(xx) (Not a direct quote, based on reference # )

When we hear the first voiceover (which like all voiceovers in Ecos scenes, is spoken by Doyhen, backstage), Gaia enters USL with Trotos.

Doyhen voice over: This happens all over the world, in Mexico(xxi), Vietnam(xxii), Kenya(xxiii) … in Brazil for example, approximately 35% of the tobacco growers finish the harvest owing more money to the companies than they earned." (Not a direct quote, based on reference (xxiv) )

When we hear the words "owing more money" Hardhat enters USR. Hardhat has Gaia sign clipboard with contract (signed with a large X by Gaia). Hardhat gives Gaia two green bills. Then the Hardhat sells her tobacco seeds and takes one bill back. Hardhat sells her fertilizer and takes back the other bill. Hardhat hands Gaia the pesticide and demands more money. Gaia grudgingly gives him her last bill.

Gaia gestures calling for Kadeem, then claps her hands. Kadeem enters USR and crosses to center. Hardhat turns the corn flat to reveal the other side, which says tobacco. Jack brings out the hand. When the hand comes out we hear this quote,

Doyhen voice over: The amount of land currently used to grow tobacco worldwide could instead be used to feed 10 to 20 million people.(xxv)

Both Kadeem and Gaia give their focus to this action. Kadeem has a 'take' to the audience about his confusion while Gaia turns her purse inside out.

The hardhat demonstrates to Kadeem how to use the pesticide, gives the pesticide to Kadeem and exits.

Kadeem starts spraying plants resulting in accidental spraying of both Gaia and Trotos downstage left.
Kadeem exits stage left; still spraying. Gaia tends to sprayed & crying Trotos as she exits

Transition between scenes: Lopi/Allure turns the silk, Lopi/Allure & Jack bring out flat. Gaia/Hope helps Lopi/Allure change and moves the gears. Jack takes away bags and hoe.

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